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Advancing Community wellness in the Coachella Valley

Save the Date: 3rd Healthy Desert Healthy You Summit Will Convene on Sept. 10 with New Topics

May 8, 2026 - District Staff

Attendees at the Desert Healthcare District & Foundation's annual health summit this year will have the opportunity to explore four social determinants of health: 


  • Behavioral Health
  • Healthcare Access
  • Housing
  • Workforce Development




When the District & Foundation launched the Healthy Desert Healthy You Summit in 2024, its intention was to bring together community leaders, residents, and other stakeholders to address the environmental health challenges affecting the community. Their conversations on air quality, water quality and land-use issues continued at the second annual summit in 2025.


The District & Foundation's support of programs and services to improve environmental health also continues through a Request for Proposals (RFP) that was launched in September 2024. Titled “Mitigating Air Quality-Related Health Conditions: Prevention, Diagnosis, and Management," the RFP resulted in the District & Foundation Board awarding a total of $997,353 in two-year grants to five organizations: Asthma & Allergy Foundation, DAP Health, Desert Recreation Foundation, Visión y Compromiso, and Youth Leadership Institute.


"Our focus on environmental health followed Tropical Storm Hilary a year earlier, which allowed us to delve into the various health concerns that were amplified by the natural disaster," Desert Healthcare District & Foundation CEO Chris Christensen said. "This year we were compelled by social determinants of health that very much align with the health and wellness priorities of our community."


Another change for the 2026 summit is its location. The day of panel discussions, keynotes, art exhibitions and podcast conversations will take place Sept. 10 at the Omni Rancho Las Palmas Resort & Spa, 4100 Bob Hope Drive, Rancho Mirage.


Summit registration is not yet available; however, updates will be provided as event details are confirmed through a digital newsletter. Please sign up to receive updates through email.


About the Desert Healthcare District & Foundation


The Desert Healthcare District is a local government agency formed in 1948. Its mission is to improve health access and outcomes for all District residents through strategic funding and partnerships. The District includes more than 400,000 residents and encompasses the entire Coachella Valley. The District and Desert Healthcare Foundation, together, are one of the largest funders in the valley. These funds are used to assist residents — especially the underserved — in accessing vitally needed resources, such as primary and behavioral healthcare. Learn more.